Quote
1. Quote - Listen to the quote and guess what the slang means.
“Anything I do…is going to be funky. That’s a rule of thumb.”
- Justin Timberlake, pop singer, on experimentation with his sound. (mtv.com)
Definition
1. Definition - Study the definition.
good idea to use; rough guideline
2. Use - Learn how the slang is used.
A rule of thumb is an easily understood general rule. Rules of thumb are not completely reliable, but they are easy to use in a pinch. The expression comes from the fact that the distance from the end of your thumb to the first joint is about an inch. You can use your thumb to measure things. It won’t be entirely accurate, but it’s often good enough.
In the past year, Justin Timberlake has experimented with a more rock sound. But whatever he plays, his music will always have elements of funk. Some songs will be funkier than others, but, as a rule of thumb Timberlake’s music will always be funky.
Examples
1. Examples - Hear some example sentences.
“As a rule of thumb, I always bring an umbrella when it’s cloudy. You never know, it might rain.”
“It’s a good rule of thumb never to trust anyone with your passwords.”
“It’s good to arrive late to parties and early to job interviews. That’s my rule of thumb.”